How should babies on mixed feeding drink water?

Many infants receive mixed feeding—primarily due to insufficient maternal milk supply—requiring supplementation with infant formula. How, then, should infants on mixed feeding be given water?

Hydration for Infants on Mixed Feeding

Offering small amounts of water between feedings helps support kidney function in eliminating metabolic waste and maintaining fluid balance. Especially during summer, ensure the bottle nipple is sterilized by boiling before use to prevent diarrhea. Infants on mixed feeding must receive supplemental water; otherwise, they may become irritable, develop food stagnation, or experience indigestion. Importantly, mothers should not discontinue breastfeeding—instead, they should maximize breastfeeding whenever possible. Breastfed infants should be fed on demand, whereas formula-fed infants require scheduled feedings.

Mixed feeding for infants—simultaneous intake of breast milk and infant formula—is suitable for babies whose mothers produce insufficient breast milk. Clinically, two common approaches are used: During a feeding session, allow the infant to nurse at the breast first, ensuring thorough emptying of the mother’s breasts. If the infant remains hungry afterward, supplement with an appropriate amount of formula.

If the mother’s milk supply is sufficient, the infant may receive exclusive breastfeeding for that feeding. However, if, after 2–3 hours, the infant begins a second feeding but the mother’s available milk volume falls short of the infant’s needs for a full feeding, the infant may be given formula for that feeding. Once the mother’s milk supply increases again, breastfeeding can resume. We hope this information proves helpful!